JOURNAL OF ROCK MECHANICS

JOURNAL OF ROCK MECHANICS

Evaluation of the Mechanical Properties of Cement Mortar Containing Expanded Vermiculite Aggregate

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Department of Rock Mechanics, Faculty of Mining and Materials, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
One of the latest and most significant topics in civil engineering, materials science, and rock mechanics is the use of natural and mineral aggregates as a partial replacement for cement or aggregates in cement mortar or concrete. This approach aims to enhance the properties of concrete or mortar by incorporating these materials. One such material that has recently gained attention is Expanded Vermiculite. Given its insulating properties against waves and heat, the use of mortar with expanded vermiculite additives has become increasingly common to improve efficiency. However, a comprehensive study on the mechanical properties of this type of mortar has not yet been conducted. The present study investigates the mechanical properties of cement mortar containing expanded vermiculite, including uniaxial compressive strength, cohesion, internal friction angle, tensile strength, water absorption, and P-wave velocity. This research was carried out in the Rock Mechanics Laboratory at Tarbiat Modares University. The results indicate that with increased vermiculite content, most mechanical parameters (except for water absorption) significantly decrease.
Keywords
Subjects

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